A new Ohio law has been signed by Governor Mike DeWine requiring automatic external defibrillators, or AEDs, to be placed in almost every school or sports and recreation venue in the state. This law was prompted by the sudden cardiac arrest of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin during a Monday Night Football game in Cincinnati. Hamlin himself praised the new law, stating that it would make Ohio a safer place for young people to learn, play, and compete. The law will require public schools, municipally-owned sports and recreation locations, and some private schools to have AEDs on-site.
Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest on the field after making what seemed like a routine tackle during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in January 2023. His episode led to the passing of this new law which also mandates that employees receive special training on how to use AEDs and identify signs of cardiac arrest. In addition, students will be required to attend informational sessions on sudden cardiac arrest before the start of any athletic season. The goal of the law is to make sure that schools, sports centers, and organizations are better prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies.
The previous Ohio law only allowed school districts to choose to have AEDs on-site, but now it is mandatory for almost all schools and sports and recreation venues to have them. The law also requires the Ohio Department of Health to create a model emergency action plan for schools, centers, and sports groups to follow when using AEDs. This legislation ensures that the necessary measures are in place to increase the chances of survival for anyone who experiences sudden cardiac arrest.
The mandatory placement of AEDs in schools and sports venues is expected to save lives and provide a heightened level of safety, especially for young athletes. By requiring AEDs on-site, employees to be trained in their use, and students to be educated on recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest, the law strives to prevent tragedies like the one experienced by Damar Hamlin. The new law is seen as a positive step towards creating a more prepared and resilient environment for Ohio’s youth.
Hamlin’s public struggle with sudden cardiac arrest during a nationally televised football game served as a wake-up call for legislators who realized the importance of having AEDs readily available in schools and sports venues. By passing this law, Ohio is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens, particularly young athletes who are at a higher risk for sudden cardiac arrest. The new law represents a significant victory for Ohio’s youth and their families by providing added protection in the event of a cardiac emergency.
Overall, the new Ohio law mandating AEDs in schools and sports venues, along with training for employees and students, is a significant step towards creating a more prepared and responsive community. By requiring these life-saving devices to be readily available in key locations, the state is prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens, particularly young athletes who are vulnerable to sudden cardiac arrest. This legislation is a testament to the commitment of Ohio lawmakers, Governor Mike DeWine, and advocates like Damar Hamlin to prioritize the health and safety of Ohioans.
